GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Military and community leaders gathered January 22 for the annual State of the Military address, where commanders emphasized mission readiness, future growth, and the critical role Wayne County plays in supporting Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.
Colonel Todd Walker, speaking on behalf of the Goldsboro-Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, opened the program by thanking the community for its continued support of service members and their families. Walker, who recently transitioned from military service to the chamber, described Wayne County as one of the strongest military-supporting communities he has experienced.
Colonel Diane Patton, Commander 916th Air Refueling Wing, outlined the reserve mission to deliver combat-ready airmen worldwide. She highlighted strong integration with the 4th Fighter Wing, noting shared training and operational synergy between active-duty and reserve forces.
Patton also announced plans for a new alert facility for the reserve wing — the first of its kind — and discussed programs supporting airmen and families, including community-based childcare, travel reimbursement for reservists, and employer partnerships that help ease the challenges of weekend and long-distance service.
4th Fighter Wing Commander Colonel Morgan Lohse, Commander of the 4th Fighter Wing followed with a comprehensive update on global operations, readiness, and the future of air power. He emphasized that the U.S. military remains at a high level of readiness and highlighted Seymour Johnson’s role in recent deployments and operations around the world.
Among the wing’s 2025 highlights were the award-winning Wings Over Wayne Air Show, named the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds’ top military air show of the year, and multiple overseas deployments, including operations in the Pacific and Middle East.
Lohse also announced significant upcoming changes for Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, including the arrival of upgraded F-15 aircraft beginning later this year and continued investment in infrastructure. While the base will undergo a runway closure this summer for major repairs, leaders emphasized the long-term benefits to readiness and safety.
Looking ahead, Lohse underscored the enduring future of F-15 air power at Seymour Johnson, noting the base will host at least 90 aircraft for decades to come. He also discussed emerging technologies such as unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, which will shape future military operations while complementing manned aircraft.
Throughout the event, speakers repeatedly credited strong partnerships with local governments, businesses, healthcare providers, schools, and civic organizations for the base’s success. Leaders stressed that housing, childcare, healthcare access, and spouse employment remain top priorities for supporting military families.
The event concluded with thanks to community sponsors, including the City of Goldsboro, Wayne County, local businesses, and military advocacy organizations, and a reaffirmed commitment to collaboration between the military and the Wayne County community.
